The use of terbutaline for stopping contractions is somewhat contriversial. It's action on smooth does stop pre term contractions, but as to whether it stops actual pre term labor is debatable. I have worked with docs who say they give it more to benefit the patients psyche, which in and of itself is not a bad thing. Cervical change is the only true definition of labor. Cramping can occur early on in the pregnancy and baby movement can sometimes feel like contractions. At 14 weeks, you probably were feeling one of these. Probably, but I am certainly not diagnosing! Dehydration and stressors are more often a cause of pretem contracions than anything. Lastly, if you aren't comfortable with your OB for any reason and feel he is not working in your best interest, there are many more out threre that may be more suitable! Then there are midwives...they tend to be much more in tune (as a rule) to their patients needs overall, though, they don't practice everywhere.

Mar 4, '03

What kind of problems are you having that you think terb is warranted? How far along are you?

It sounds like you are on the right track in finding another OB doc, if you aren't pleased with your current care.

Mar 4, '03

hey everyone! thank you for the info and support. as far as my history, I had an early misc due to genetics. with my son I started having contractions at 16 weeks and went into labour at 32 weeks. Had a MgSO4 drip, then terbutaline w/ complete bedrest for 4 weeks until delivery, so I have a bit of experience with contractions.
I'm 17 weeks pg with my next, last monday I had 9 contrax/hour and the OB would not take my concerns seriously. This is when i asked about terbutaline and I was told they do not administer it unless there is progress.
Also, PTL seems to run in my family, so I feel like i need to make sure I'm taken care of.

Thanks again.

Mar 4, '03

I certainly understand your concerns and that you would expect your doctor to be very explicit and communicative with you during this pregnancy. Doctors often don't treat preterm labor very aggressively until the age of viabilty which is 20 weeks. I'd pin this doc down and get the answers that made me feel comfortable or move on.